Handel's Ice Cream, recognized as the #1 ice cream in the world by National Geographic, is expanding its Southern California presence with a new shop in Carmel Mountain Ranch. The location at 11134 Rancho Carmel Drive in the Carmel Mountain Plaza will celebrate its Grand Opening on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. The event will feature multiple giveaways throughout the day, with the first 30 guests in line starting at 11:00 a.m. receiving an exclusive Handel's spoon.
The new shop is operated by a team of partners including Keith and Shirlyn Kesler, Travis and Tarah Campbell, and Tammi Weenig. This group, composed of friends and family, brings extensive experience with the brand, as this marks their 12th Handel's location. Keith Kesler, who transitioned from a 30-year corporate career, emphasized the venture's focus on happiness and community connection. "After three decades in corporate America, I wanted to lead a venture that was purely about happiness," said Kesler. "We have truly enjoyed being a part of this community over the years and look forward to seeing all the great families we have come to know."
The 1,600-square-foot walk-up shop will feature eight service windows to ensure efficient service during peak hours. It will offer 48 rotating flavors made fresh daily, along with pickup and delivery options through DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Postmates, as well as catering services. The shop will be open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. For more information, visit www.handelsicecream.com/carmel-mountain-ranch/.
Handel's Ice Cream has been making and selling ice cream since 1945, founded by Alice Handel in Youngstown, Ohio. The brand now has over 175 locations across 20 states and continues to grow. It has earned numerous accolades, including being ranked the #1 Sweet Treat and a Top 10 Brand to Buy by Franchise Times, and is listed on the publication's Top 400 list of the largest franchise systems in the U.S. Additionally, Handel's was recognized on Fast Casual's Movers & Shakers 2025 list, and CEO Jennifer Schuler was named among the Top 25 Industry Executives. The brand is also a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine. To learn more about franchise opportunities, visit www.handelsicecream.com/franchise.
The opening of this new location underscores Handel's commitment to community-centric entrepreneurship and its mission to deliver high-quality ice cream made fresh daily. The partners have been active in the area through fundraising and catering events, and they look forward to deepening those local ties. With this expansion, Handel's continues to bring its celebrated ice cream to more neighborhoods, aiming to create lasting memories for San Diego families.
